Government signs £2.9m Moon base nuclear power deal with Rolls-Royce

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Rolls-Royce scientists and engineers are to research how nuclear power could be used to support a future Moon base.

The UK Space Agency has given the Derby-based firm £2.9m to look at ways of powering future lunar settlements.

The company has been asked to demonstrate how nuclear micro reactors could extend the duration of future missions to the Moon.

The government said the deal would boost the UK's space industry and create skilled jobs.

The UK Space Agency said it wanted to establish a new power source to support systems for communications, life-support and scientific experiments on the Moon.

The agency's chief executive Dr Paul Bate said: "We are backing technology and capabilities to support ambitious space exploration missions and boost sector growth across the UK.